The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Bank of Tampa invests in local business community

By

Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO, accepts a check from Angie Gardner on behalf of Bank of Tampa. The funding will support a microloan program. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

LUTZ – Bank of Tampa has donated $2,500 to the SMARTstart Microloan Program, according to the Pasco Economic Development Council.

The program gives entrepreneurs the funds they need to start or grow their business. Its goal is to strengthen the Pasco County economy and create more job opportunities. 

“The Bank of Tampa is deeply committed to strengthening the communities where we live, work and play by supporting local businesses and organizations,” said Angie Gardner, vice president/commercial relationship manager for Bank of Tampa. “We are incredibly proud to contribute to Pasco EDC’s Microloan Fund, helping turn the dreams of small business owners into reality.”

To qualify for a microloan, businesses must be headquartered in Pasco County. Funds can be used for purchasing inventory and machinery, working capital, supplies and more.

“The SMARTstart Microloan Program has helped over 80 businesses to date, and we are excited to see more business growth in the future thanks to this program that would not be possible without generous donors like the Bank of Tampa,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO.

Those 80-plus businesses to benefit from the program have created more than 275 direct jobs.

Pasco EDC recently held its third annual Microloan Breakfast to give financial professionals an update on the program. Two microloan recipients shared their successes with the audience. 

Antonio Rodriguez, co-owner of Elite 360 Studio, was one of the presenters. 

“The SMARTstart Microloan Program from Pasco EDC was a true game-changer for Elite 360 Studio,” Rodriguez said. “The funding and support we received allowed us to invest in the equipment and resources essential to our growth. Beyond financial assistance, the program expanded our network and connected us with invaluable local resources. Pasco EDC’s commitment showed us they genuinely care about our success. We’re proud to be part of a community that champions and empowers small businesses.”

 

Want to learn more?

Visit www.smartstartpasco.com/microloan or contact program director Dan Mitchell at to learn more about the SMARTstart Microloan Program.

AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER welcomes patients

By

AdventHealth leaders welcomed community leaders April 24 to a ribbon cutting of the new AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

WESLEY CHAPEL – AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER officially opened its doors to patients on April 29.

The 13,000-square-foot emergency department on Chapel Commerce Drive, between Zephyrhills and Wesley Chapel, features 12 patient beds, two triage rooms and offers imaging and lab services. The ER also has a pediatric-friendly room designed to take care of even the littlest of patients.

“Having an emergency room in a growing area like this is really about a partnership with our clinical teams, our physician providers, our EMS within AdventHealth as well as our EMS with Pasco County,” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Connerton. “What is so awesome about this building here is we all work together to serve our growing community. That’s what I am so excited about.”  

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER joins the organization’s 10 other freestanding emergency departments across the West Florida Division. It is the fifth AdventHealth ER in Pasco County. 

This also includes a dedicated EMS fleet of 21 ambulances and AdventHealth AirStar 1, a medical helicopter dedicated to critical patient transport across the Tampa Bay region.    

Construction of the new AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER cost $26 million. The project generated more than two dozen jobs in the Pasco County area.  

“The completion of this facility in just nine months is a testament to the exceptional collaboration and long-term relationship between our team, AdventHealth, and our trade contractor partners,” said Todd Watson, state division manager for Robins & Morton. “We are thrilled to deliver this facility in a timely manner to begin serving our Pasco County community.”

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER is a department of AdventHealth Zephyrhills.  

Rodizio Grill is fired up for grand opening 

By

Rodizio Grill has locations in Estero, Pensacola, Sarasota, Naples, Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando. Rendering courtesy of Rodizio Grill

WESLEY CHAPEL – Rodizio Grill will celebrate the grand opening of its sixth location in Florida on May 28 at 2082 Grand Cypress Drive in Lutz. 

Rodizio Grill pioneered the Brazilian “churrasco” steakhouse experience in the United States. Over the past three decades, the brand has expanded to nearly 25 locations across 14 states, offering guests an authentic Brazilian dining experience.

Rodizio Grill of Wesley Chapel marks the brand’s first ground-up construction. More than 150 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony on May 14, 2024. 

“I was truly amazed by the overwhelming support and enthusiasm for Rodizio Grill’s arrival in Wesley Chapel,” said Charlie Haney, owner of the local restaurant. “We’re not only excited to open our doors and welcome the community, but also to actively contribute to the area’s growth by creating jobs and supporting local initiatives in every way we can.” 

The restaurant will create more than 60 full & part-time jobs.

“The Wesley Chapel location is a major milestone for us, not only because of the growing demand in Florida but because it represents the next chapter for our brand’s continued expansion,” said Ivan Utrera, founder and president of Rodizio Grill.

Rodizio Grill is known for its playful Brazilian spirit, authentic menu offerings and family-friendly atmosphere. The concept features rotisserie-grilled meats that are seasoned and carved tableside by traditionally dressed Gauchos alongside an award-winning gourmet salad bar. Customers can also find hot side dishes, desserts and a range of handcrafted Brazilian drinks from fresh-pressed juices and Brazilian Limeades to signature cocktails.

Thiago Navarro will serve as general manager of the new location. Navarro has more than a decade of experience at Rodizio Grill. 

“Growing up in Brazil, many of my cherished memories were made at our local churrascaria, whether we were celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying time with family,” Navarro said. “Rodizio Grill captures the heart of those moments: the traditional flavors, the experience with the Gauchos and the warm atmosphere. I’m incredibly proud to bring a piece of Brazil to Wesley Chapel and excited to share my passion for our culture and the authentic Rodizio Grill experience with this community.”

Visit Rodizio.com to make a reservation or learn more about the restaurant. 

 

News Briefs (4/30/25): Theater to screen Star Wars trilogy

By

Tampa Theatre to screen Star Wars trilogy

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre is celebrating May the Fourth (aka Star Wars Day) by screening the original Star Wars trilogy. 

The film will be screen at the following times on May 4: 

  • 1 p.m. – “Star Wars: A New Hope” (1977).
  • 4 p.m. – “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” (1980).
  • 7 p.m. – “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” (1983).

The celebration kicks off May 1 with a special screening of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” at 7 p.m. 

Tickets cost $7 for theater members and $10 for others. Get them at the Tampa Theatre Box Office (711 N. Franklin St.) or at www.TampaTheatre.org.

 

Theater group announces new slate of productions

WESLEY CHAPEL – The New Tampa Players has announced productions for its 2025-26 season.

The group will present “Oklahoma” in October 2025, “The SpongeBob Musical” in January 2026 and Annie in July 2026. 

Tickets are available for the upcoming production of “The Music Man” from July 25 to Aug. 3 at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center.

On the web: newtampaplayers.org

 

County under burn ban

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County was placed under an emergency burn ban April 22 for all areas of the county due to a prolonged lack of rainfall, resulting in an increased risk of brush fires.  

Under the ban, everyone living in unincorporated areas of Pasco County was prohibited from setting fires or causing fires, including open burning, campfires/bonfires and burning yard waste/garbage. Outdoor cooking in grills or smokers was OK.

The ban prohibited outdoor burning not specifically permitted by the Florida Forest Service. 

 

Animals services halts dog intakes due to pneumovirus

PASCO COUNTY – Following several positive cases of Canine Pneumovirus, Pasco County Animal Services closed dog adoptions, intakes, surgery and rescue transfers for 14 days through May 3.

PCAS remained open for cat only adoptions, surgeries, rescue transfers, vaccine and microchip clinics, pet licensing and owner-requested euthanasia needs.

“The health and safety of the animals in our care, as well as our community, has been and will always be our top priority,” PCAS Director Mike Shumate said. “While we understand this is an inconvenience for our residents, we appreciate your understanding during this time.”

 

Group pays tribute to veterans

DADE CITY – The Augusta Jane Evans Wilson Chapter held its annual Southern Memorial Day observance on Aug. 19 at Townsend House Cemetery. 

“Each year, we remember those veterans who served, and this year, we honored those interred at Townsend House Cemetery in Dade City,” said Lunelle McCallister, memorial committee chair.

As part of the observance, the veterans’ memorial was re-dedicated and a new flag raised on a flagpole.

Participants included a US Color Guard from the Zephyrhills Bulldog Army JROTC, a historic color guard from the Judah P. Benjamin Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, and a bagpiper who performed special music.

The event included a memorial floral wreath that honored veterans through a Roll Call of Honor.

Southern Memorial Day, also known as Confederate Memorial Day, was first established in Georgia in 1866, and was later adopted by other states as floral tributes were made and veteran graves were tended.  The practice was emulated by the Grand Army of Republic and was the inspiration for Memorial Day which is observed in May.  

The Augusta Jane Evans Wilson Chapter 2640 has members located in Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Prospective members and supporters are invited to email .

On the web: AugustaJanesUDC.org

 

Club supports veterans

LAND O’ LAKES – The Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club and its youth counterpart, the Lutz Little Women, came together in a heartfelt show of support April 15 at St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport. 

They welcomed home veterans returning from Honor Flight 52.

The Honor Flight Network transports America’s veterans to Washington, D.C. free of charge, to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. Upon their return, they are met with a warm, patriotic welcome – something many never received after their service, especially those who served in the Vietnam War.

One club member, Jeannie Stratis, took her support a step further by participating in the flight itself as a guardian, accompanying one of the veterans throughout the day.

The evening was filled with smiles, tears and gratitude from both the veterans and those there to honor them. 

On the web: gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org

 

HART earns budgeting award

TAMPA – The Hillsborough Transit Authority earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association for its Fiscal Year 2025 budget.

HART’s budget document was evaluated against nationally recognized guidelines that assess how well it serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communications tool. 

“The GFOA recognition reflects HART’s strong commitment to transparency and accountability,” Chief Financial Officer Loretta Kirk said. “It’s a proud moment for our team and a clear validation of our continued efforts to be responsible stewards of public resources while building trust with our community.”

On the web: goHART.org

Student draws inspiration from home to graduate college

By

Jakiara Willis did not give up on getting a college education. She is days away from earning a certificate in phlebotomy. Photo courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College

Jakiara Willis had to pause her education when she was 19 years old to take care of her mother who had been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease

Now, at 30, she promised both her mother and grandmother to continue her education.

Willis is one of about 900 students at Pasco-Hernando State College expected to be eligible for graduation this semester. She’ll receive her career certificate in phlebotomy on May 8 on the college’s West Campus in New Port Richey. 

“PHSC made it worth it,” Willis said. “My professor, Ms. Crystal, and my classmates were all amazing. The class dynamic was so helpful, with everyone sharing their ideas and points of view.”

Willis ultimately chose to re-engage her education journey, starting with phlebotomy, because she wanted to walk in her grandmother’s footsteps, who made a career in phlebotomy. 

Her education and career goals don’t end there. She plans to continue her education to become a medical lab scientist, working on developing a cure and treatment plan for Crohn’s disease. 

“I’m a child of a parent who’s struggling, seeing my own mother go through this has given me a resolve to give back and help. I dedicate my experiences and goals to my mother, and if there’s even just one person I can help, it makes a difference,” Willis said. 

She is still weighing her options about what’s next and is determined to make progress in her field.

 

Dual enrollment gives grads a head start on college

By

Samuel Wu

LAND O’ LAKES – Samuel Wu is not only earning a high school diploma at Sunlake High School this spring but he’s also receiving his Associate in Arts degree through dual enrollment at Pasco-Hernando State College.

Wu, who is graduating as valedictorian at Sunlake, said earning a degree in high school has helped jumpstart his college experience. 

“Earning my AA allows me to go right into my major, having already covered all my general education and prerequisites,” Wu said. “I can dive deep into what I’m really interested in.” 

Wu is planning on attending the University of Florida for his advanced coursework.

Other students are taking advantage of Pasco-Hernando State College’s dual enrollment program. 

Amaya Beebe, of West Campus, described doing dual enrollment as her best decision.

“PHSC has been super welcoming and helpful,” Beebe said. “My instructors have made the process super smooth.”

After graduation, she plans to move to Boston to attend Suffolk University to study her undergrad in politics with a major in global cultural studies.

Ruth Greenhaw, of Wiregrass Ranch High School, said she had a very good experience for dual enrollment. 

“I’m glad I did it,” Greenshaw said. “The process was pretty smooth and helped set me up for my next educational step.”

Harlee Wilson, of West Campus, started at Pasco-Hernando State College as a high school sophomore. 

The next stop on her educational journey is USF, where she is going into the biomedical sciences to become a forensic pathologist. Her hopes to be accepted into the seven-year BS/MD program USF offers.

“PHSC has been a big part of my growth over the past three years and has set me up for success in my future,” Wilson said, “PHSC truly wants its students to succeed, and it is shown throughout the campus. I am grateful to be a PHSC alumni.” 

Pasco-Hernando State College will host spring commencement on May 8 in the Physical Fitness Center at the West Campus in New Port Richey, 10230 Ridge Road. Two commencement ceremonies will honor graduates earning bachelor’s and associate degrees and certificates. The morning ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. and the afternoon commencement will begin at 3:30 p.m. The event will be live streamed at phsc.edu/grad.

Saint Leo nursing students ready to graduate  

By

During her junior year in 2024, Saint Leo University nursing student Grace Lundfelt listens to the heart of “patient” Kim Manning, clinical nurse educator, at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University

ST. LEO – They are the first. They made it through their general classes, passed CPR and additional tests and achieved the minimum 3.3 GPA to become nursing students their junior year. Then they studied, worked in health care, learned to draw blood and give injections, practiced their skills, and studied some more. Now, they will be Saint Leo University’s first graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program.

Twelve students make up the first cohort to graduate from the university’s nursing program. 

“They didn’t simply meet the expectations of our program. They helped shape them,” faculty member Paige Porter said. “Their legacy sets the standard for those who will follow in their footsteps.”

 

Program’s beginnings

Not only did the university recognize the need for nurses when it launched the bachelor’s degree in 2021, but so did the Florida Legislature, Gov. Ron DeSantis, area health care and government leaders, and several donors. 

They provided additional funds to build the program and create learning spaces for the future health professionals. In February 2025, Saint Leo held the grand opening for its new nursing space on the second floor of Benedictine Hall. The space includes two conference rooms, two classrooms, five offices, three simulation rooms, an assessment room, a simulation control room, a nursing lab, a lounge and study spaces.

“Our simulations were very well thought out and creative, using the most up-to-date technology, allowing us to experience certain health situations such as delivering babies and providing wound care,” said senior Laynee Marsee, of the opportunities provided by the new simulation rooms and equipment.

 

Self-Care equals better patient care

Four themes are embedded in Saint Leo’s nursing courses: evidence-based practice, interprofessional communication, culture of health and clinician well-being. Saint Leo’s nursing students not only are learning how to take care of others, but they’re also learning to take care of themselves.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, “we saw many nurses leave the profession,” said Kathleen Van Eerden, dean of the College of Health Professions. “We saw how important it was for nurses to be resilient and to manage stress.”

She said it was important for Saint Leo’s program to help students build the skills they need to be happy in their choice so that they have a long career in nursing.

“Understanding that nursing has a high probability of burnout and compassion fatigue can help me be more aware of work-life balance and taking breaks when I need them,” said soon-to-be nursing graduate Nathanael Allen.

Senior Mekhai Dinnard said the program’s focus on clinician well-being made a difference in how she handles stress. Dinnard balanced her studies with working two to three jobs – as a nurse extern at Moffitt Cancer Center and as a registered behavior technician working with children on the autism spectrum. 

“Nursing school is hard and being a new graduate nurse will be extremely hard as well, especially in the beginning,” Dinnard said. “It’s important that I prioritize my mental health in order to give the best care possible to my patients.”

 

Unique approach to nursing education

During spring semester 2024, the nursing program’s then-juniors embarked on new journey in clinical education and gained one-on-one training with nurse preceptors (mentors) at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. 

Thanks to a partnership between the university and AdventHealth, an innovative Dedicated Education Unit was created to train future nurses and possible employees. 

In the typical clinical model, a nursing instructor in the hospital mentors eight nursing students, and each student initially is assigned to one patient. But with the DEU model, because the student is paired with their mentor, the student actually works alongside that nurse, who usually is assigned a caseload of patients. 

Saint Leo students worked side-by-side for 12-hour shifts with their mentors and university nursing instructor Porter.

In 2025, the DEU program expanded to include AdventHealth Dade City.

Ava Valenti’s favorite part of the nursing program was the clinicals. 

“Especially the DEU where I got to apply everything I learned in real time with a single preceptor,” she said. “The hands-on experience made the lectures come to life and helped me build confidence in my skills.”

As students worked in various units at AdventHealth Zephyrhills and Dade City, they gained insight to different types of nursing.

“My most important moments were spent in their [AdventHealth] ICU where I was able to know with confidence that I wanted to pursue that type of nursing,” Martina Encomienda said. “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to rotate through Critical Care with them.”

Learning about all the opportunities available in the future was key for nursing student Alexis Musser. 

“I look forward to all of the opportunities to come,” she said. “I feel a sense of security knowing that there are so many different jobs and specialties within the field of nursing. There is never a ‘dead-end.’”

 

The next chapter

As Saint Leo’s nursing students prepare to graduate on May 7 and enter various health care fields, they’re proud to be the first cohort. 

“This program taught me that I am far more capable than I ever thought I could be,” said Emily Edwards. “I have learned and experienced more than I thought I would in the short time I have been in the program. It has given me the strength I needed to not only pursue this career, but also find a passion for it.”

The seniors will take part in a pinning ceremony May 5 at the Student Community Center. They will receive a pin representing their graduation from Saint Leo University’s nursing program.

Nursing pinning ceremonies are rooted in history. The ceremony has ties to Florence Nightingale, known as a founder of modern nursing. For her work during the Crimean War, she received the Red Cross of St. George in the 1860s. Saint Leo’s nursing graduates proudly will wear their pins, indicating they have the skills and compassion to join the field.

Some of the students have accepted positions or have offers locally at AdventHealth, Lakeland Regional Health, Tampa General Hospital, Moffit Cancer Center and BayCare health care facilities.

“They are ready – more than ready – to take their place in the world as nurses,” Porter said. “And I’m truly honored to have been part of their story.”

 

Pasco County Fire Rescue donates fire engine to school

By

HUDSON – Pasco County Fire Rescue made a large donation to the Fivay High School Fire Science Academy – a fire engine.

Emily Lamb, program coordinator of career and technical education at Pasco County Schools, thanked Fire Chief Ryan Guynn and his team for supporting education. 

“This incredible gift will significantly enhance our students’ learning experience, providing them with hands-on training and invaluable practical skills,” Lamb said. “The fire truck will serve as a vital tool in preparing our future firefighters, ensuring they are well equipped to serve and protect our community.”

Students across the district that are interested in pursuing careers in firefighting can apply to be part of the Fire Science Academy through Pasco Pathways School Choice. 

“We are finally starting to see it really move and excel, which is fantastic,” Principal Erik Hermansen said of the academy. “Without the leadership of Lt. (Steven) Smith and the dedication of our students, we wouldn’t be there but it is fantastic. We are making huge strides in all of our public service programs.”

Guynn said his team is happy to partner with the school district. He credited the Pasco County Board of Commissioners for allowing the fire department to make the donation. 

“This program is already excelling and together we’re going to continue working with it and make it that much better day after day,” Guynn said. 

The Pasco County School Board recognized Pasco County Fire Rescue for the donation during its April 15 meeting. 

“It is partnerships like these that inspire and empower our students to pursue their dreams with passion and dedication,” Lamb said. “We deeply appreciate your contribution and the positive impact it will have on our academy.”

 

Take these steps to help keep Earth healthy

By

Environmental sustainability has been a hot topic lately. You’ve likely heard of one’s carbon footprint, where our everyday activities, such as commuting, buying clothes and products and energy usage, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions entering the environment. Relatedly, we should also be cognizant of our foodprint. This is all the behind the scenes food production practices it takes for your food to get to your plate, from farming, to packaging, to transportation. This, in turn, impacts the environment – the soil, air and water. Our food choices affect not just our health, but the planet. So this Earth Day, here are some ways to reduce your foodprint:

  • Bring your own mug/thermos when getting coffee, and skip the lid, straw and disposable stirrer as much as possible. Use a spoon instead.
  • With delivery or takeout, decline plastic silverware, extra napkins and plastic bags.
  • If you know you’ll have leftovers when dining out, consider bringing your own container and see if the restaurant will use it.
  • Shop locally to reduce the “food miles” it takes for your food to travel.
  • Buy in bulk to reduce packaging, such as a big family size container of yogurt instead of the individual containers, but only if you can realistically consume it before it goes bad.
  • Meal plan before grocery shopping to reduce food waste, and “shop” your refrigerator and pantry first to reduce buying duplicates. You’ll save money, too.
  • If you find your fresh produce goes bad before use, consider other forms: canned, frozen and dried count, too.
  • Bring your own reusable grocery bags to the store, or bring the plastic bags from a previous visit for reuse.
  • Compost food scraps to divert them from landfills.
  • The lower you eat on the food chain, the less environmental impact. Consider going meatless a few days a week and have a plant-based protein instead, such as beans or lentils.
  • Cook with the intention of having leftovers (also called planned overs). Making extra servings will reduce the energy (and time and effort) needed to make another meal. Consume within three to four days.

One point worth mentioning is meat alternative products. While we tend to think of plant-based food as healthier, many of these plant-based meats are ultra processed.  And as we know, a diet high in processed food can lead to health concerns. If you did want to cut back on meat consumption, you’re better off with natural plant-based proteins, such as nuts, beans and seeds. The products made to resemble and taste like meat are often high in fat and sodium.

Just adopting a few of these habits can add up over time and make a big difference. Want to know how large your foodprint is? Check it out on the foodprint quiz at foodprint.org: https://foodprint.org/quiz/ or on Harvard’s foodprint calculator: https://harvard-foodprint-calculator.github.io/

Along with that, you can find out what your water footprint is, too, with the FoodPrint’s water calculator: https://foodprint.org/eating-sustainably/water-footprint-calculator/

Incorporating sustainability in how you shop, cook, and dine out are easy ways to take action and support the environment. 

 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.

 

News Briefs (4/23/25): Shape Grand Boulevard plan

By

Pasco hosts events to shape Grand Boulevard plan

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County’s Planning, Development and Economic Growth team invites residents to share their vision for the redevelopment of Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey. 

The team has started hosting visioning workshops designed to collect feedback from our community to help shape the area’s redevelopment plan.

Workshops will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. May 7 and June 4 at the Elfers Senior Center, 4136 Barker Drive, New Port Richey. You can also provide feedback by taking a survey at mypas.co/grandblvdsurvey

Participation is crucial in helping identify vulnerable populations, housing, transit and other needs that may require attention during the Grand Boulevard redevelopment plan process. Ideas will also help determine how to incorporate walkability, connectivity and urban design.

Call 727.847.2411 or email to provide additional feedback.

 

Give input on flooding 

TAMPA – Hillsborough County has started hosting meetings to gather input about the cumulative flooding impacts of seasonal rainfall and Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.

The meetings will explore the extent of the impact, potential regional flood mitigation and resiliency strategies.

Hillsborough County has engaged an engineering firm to conduct a thorough assessment of the impacts from 2024’s severe rain events on stormwater infrastructure. Residents are encouraged to describe how storms affected roads, private property and businesses. 

Remaining meetings are as follows:

  • 6 p.m. April 23, Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road., Tampa.
  • 5:30 p.m. April 29, Plant City High School cafeteria, 1 Raider Place, Plant City.
  • 6:30 p.m. May 7, Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa.
  • 6 p.m. May 12, University Area Community Development Corporation, 14013 N. 22nd St., Tampa.
  • 5:30 p.m. May 15, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Public Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa.
  • 6 p.m. May 19. Lennard High School, 2342 E. Shell Point Road., Ruskin.

Residents can give feedback virtually through May 19 on the Hillsborough County Education & Engagement Hub.

Contact Public Works Customer Service at 813-635-5400 or for details. 

 

Tax office changes domain

TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office announced the launch of its new official website domain, hillstaxfl.gov, replacing the previous hillstax.org address. 

The new domain follows the federal government’s standard for official government entities, providing residents with a trusted connection to essential government services. 

All web pages and email communications from the Tax Collector’s Office will now use the hillstaxfl.gov extension.

“Accessibility, security, and public trust are top priorities for our office,” said Nancy Millan, Hillsborough County Tax Collector. “The transition to a .gov domain reinforces our commitment to providing secure and trustworthy online services to the residents we serve.”

 

Lee protecting broadband

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Laurel Lee (R-FL) introduced the Stopping the Theft and Destruction of Broadband Act. This bill will impose penalties for those who damage or steal broadband lines.

“To safeguard critical infrastructure and protect consumers, we need stronger, clearer laws and enhanced enforcement, ensuring that those who maliciously harm our networks face severe criminal penalties,” Lee said. 

 

Cleanup nets 23+ tons

LAND O’ LAKES – Volunteers picked up more than 23 tons of trash throughout Pasco County during the 2025 Greatest American Cleanup.

More than 1,020 volunteers fanned out March 1 in public spaces, including along roadsides and around waterways, covering 50 locations throughout Pasco County.

Keep Pasco Beautiful hosts the Greatest American Cleanup with corporate funding assistance.  The event’s success is a result of collaboration and assistance from Pasco County Solid Waste, Pasco County Recycling, Pasco County Environmental Compliance, Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, Reworld Pasco and Tampa Bay Water.

On the web: KeepPascoBeautiful.org

 

Theater offers summer camps

BROOKSVILLE – The Live Oak Theatre and Conservatory is offering its annual theater and summer camps for the 17th straight year.

The Theatre Camp introduces children to the theater experience. It serves as an introduction to many performing arts disciplines. Topics may include acting, auditioning, costume and set design, movement to music, vocal technique and song interpretation.

Here are dates and times of camps: 

  • Theatre Camp: June 9 to 13, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For ages 7 to 18. Tuition costs $150.
  • Dance Camp: June 16 to 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A beginner dance camp for ages 8 to 16. Tuition costs $75.

​• Improv Camp: June 16 to 20, 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. An acting camp for ages 8 and older focused on improvisation. Tuition costs $75.

Visit liveoaktheatre.org/summer-camp for details. 

 

Podcast takes on volunteering

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa chats with Sarah Sukhram and Danny Reich on the latest episode of the Pasco Podcast. 

Episode 50 focuses on giving back adn National Volunteer Month. 

Listen to the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, YouTube and other platforms.

 

Titans have new home

TAMPA – The Tampa Bay Titans announced all home games will now be played at their new official home court at Tampa Preparatory School in the heart of downtown Tampa.

The basketball team says this move strengthens its connection with the community and offers fans a more accessible and engaging game-day experience. Tampa Prep’s state-of-the-art facilities and central location make it an ideal setting for the next phase of Titans basketball.

“We’re incredibly thankful to the team at Tampa Prep for welcoming us with open arms,” said Byron Johnson, Owner of the Tampa Bay Titans. “This is more than just a venue change. It’s a major step in our mission to grow the game and build a lasting legacy in Tampa.”

Get tickets at TampaBayTitans.com